An expanded recall of apple juice products has been announced due to concerns over elevated levels of arsenic. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), an additional 133,500 cases of apple juice have been voluntarily recalled by Refresco Beverages, Inc., bringing the total number of recalled cases to over 140,000. This follows an earlier recall in August, which involved 10,000 cases of Great Value apple juice sold at Walmart. The affected products were sold at various major retailers, including Walmart, Walgreens, Aldi, BJ’s, Dollar General, and other stores nationwide.Refresco Beverages issued the recall after discovering that certain batches of its 100% apple juice contained arsenic levels slightly above the FDA's action limit of 10 parts per billion (ppb). The FDA has established this threshold to minimize arsenic exposure in food products, especially those consumed by young children. Although arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in soil and groundwater, elevated levels can pose health risks, particularly with long-term exposure.The recall affects several brands, including Market Basket, Nice!, Wellsley Farms, Weis, Urban Meadow, and Nature’s Nectar. The FDA has posted a comprehensive list of the impacted products on its website, including specific product codes and best-by dates to help consumers identify the recalled apple juice.Health Risks and FDA ClassificationThe initial recall in August was classified as a Class II recall, meaning the elevated arsenic levels posed a moderate health risk. According to the FDA, Class II recalls suggest that consumption of the product may cause temporary or medically reversible health effects, with only a remote chance of serious health consequences. While the latest recall expansion has not yet been officially classified, it is expected to follow similar guidelines.As of now, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled apple juice. However, consumers are advised to check their purchases and return any affected products to the store where they were bought.In a statement updated on Monday, Refresco Beverages emphasized its commitment to consumer safety. “The safety of consumers is always our top priority,” the company stated. “On August 23, 2024, out of an abundance of caution, we voluntarily initiated a recall of some select lots of 100% apple juice products produced using supplier-provided concentrate when we became aware that previously manufactured product contained inorganic arsenic slightly above the FDA’s 10 ppb action level.”According to a CNN Health report, the FDA’s 10 ppb limit for inorganic arsenic in apple juice was set in June 2023 as part of an effort to reduce exposure to environmental contaminants in food, particularly for babies and young children. However, this limit is not a mandatory requirement, and the FDA considers other factors when deciding to take action on arsenic levels in foods.What is Arsenic Poisoning?Arsenic poisoning happens when a person ingests or consumes large amounts of arsenic, similar to other heavy metal poisonings like mercury and lead. While acute arsenic poisoning can occur rapidly, long-term exposure is more common. This typically happens through contaminated sources such as groundwater, air, soil, or food. Areas with significant agricultural or industrial activity are often where arsenic poisoning is most prevalent. If not addressed quickly, arsenic poisoning can lead to severe health complications and even death.Symptoms of Arsenic ToxicityShort-term exposure to high arsenic levels can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Long-term exposure can lead to more severe health problems, including skin pigmentation changes, warts, lesions, and reduced nerve function. In children, chronic arsenic exposure has been linked to lower IQ scores and developmental issues.Inorganic arsenic compounds, which are more toxic than organic forms, are commonly found in groundwater and soil, particularly in regions with heavy agricultural or industrial activity. Prolonged exposure to inorganic arsenic can increase the risk of cancer, heart disease, and other serious health conditions.